5 comments about A Sister's Test (Sisters of Holmes County, Book 2).

1. I have read this author before and this book did not disappoint me at all.
   It is a great Amish story but more than that it is a great "sister" story.



2. I've read MANY novels with plot lines surrounding the Amish life. The Sisters of Holmes County series is by far the best I've read. So many of these novels seem to follow the same plotline with struggles of whether to "go English", shunnings, etc. But this is the first original plot I've read in awhile, and the bit of mystery surrounding the attacks on the family makes these books impossible to put down.



3. "A Sister's Test" is a wonder to me. I wonder how this book was ever published. The author has cheated loyal fans and the rest of her readers. Whenever an event happens in the book we have to read through everyone telling everyone else about it. After everyone knows then all the characters go back again to each other to discuss how she/he should tell the sheriff. Nothing is ever resolved. The book is written like a diary, a diary belonging to someone that doesn't know how to captivate an audience.



4. I do onjoyd reading about the Amish comunity,i have read 15 books about there live and there familys,some times i wish i live in there comunity.I love there simple live and there love for each other.I am trying to take a tour to the Amish Country.



5. This book is a continuation of the Sisters of Holmes Count series and it was certainly worth the wait. I love the writing of Brunstetter and was not disappointed by this book. Finally, the mystery was solved and I couldn't put it down until the very end, and then I was disappointed it was over! I'm still hoping there will be more in the series.
   
   If you are a fan of Wanda Brunstetter, make sure pick up a copy of this book.

No comments about Allison's Journey: Brides of Webster County, Book 4 (Truly Yours Romance Club #23).

5 comments about Blessings: Sommerfeld Trilogy #3 (Truly Yours Romance Club #19).

1. I have not had time to read it yet. I am looking forward to reading it. It came quickly and in really good condition.



2. Sawyer is a terrific writer and has a way of drawing you into the story so that you feel as if you know the characters. The book has a strong spiritual message regarding the importance of prayer.
   I've enjoyed this series and hope this book wasn't the end. I want to know what happens later, so I am hoping there is another book.
   
   Blessings was a pleasure to read.



3. This trilogy was a delightful read. I read all three books in a couple of days. I didn't want to put them down as Ms. Sawyer writes beautifully and holds the readers interest 'in captivity'. I recommend this trilogy to anyone who enjoys reading about the Mennonites or the Amish. Their culture is fascinating. Kim Vogel Sawyer is a very talented author.



4. This was book 3 in the Sommerfeld Trilogy. It was very good, the whole series.



5. Reviewed by Lori Plach for Reader Views (4/08)
   
   Sometimes blessings come in the most unexpected places. We never know just how and when God will decide to bless us. Trina Muller can't understand why she feels compelled to be a veterinarian. She has always loved animals; surely God could use her love of animals and talents to God's glory. If she was just an ordinary girl, her dreams of college and a career wouldn't be such a big deal. However, she belongs to an Old Order Mennonite group. Women are not to have any education beyond grade school, much less a career. She is supposed to be content in just being a wife and mother.
   
   She has a strong Christian Mennonite man who wants nothing more than to be her husband. Graham and Trina have known each other for years and courting for quite some time now. Surely an engagement and traditional wedding ceremony is right around the corner. Graham sees Trina's tender heart and encourages her to follow her dream even if the other members of the fellowship don't understand why she isn't content to live the life she has to. The only one in Sommerfeld who truly wants to help Trina achieve her goals is the young newly-married, stained-glass artist. She has an internet connection and wants to help in any way possible.
   
   Just as things look like they might be able to do both, their marriage and her impending career, disaster strikes and it looks like God isn't blessing them in any way, but isn't He?
   
   "Blessings" is the third book in the "Sommerfeld Trilogy." Kim Vogel Sawyer doesn't disappoint in this final book as we leave Sommerfeld. There are moments where you will laugh, cry and find yourself cheering on the young couple every step of the way. I was sorry to see the book end and am anxious to read more books by Kim Vogel Sawyer. Take a trip to Sommerfeld today; you will certainly fall in love with the characters and simplified way of life.

5 comments about The Parting (The Courtship of Nellie Fisher, Book 1).

1. For me this was an important book. I had no prior knowledge concerning the Amish position on reading the bible. I had assumed that since they have given up the earthly world to embrace the plain world, they also read the word.
   
   I learned through the message of this book that the Amish do not read the word for themselves. The bishop's interpretation of the word is what they believe. Reuben's discovery of the word as he read the key to everlasting life is not through good works, but by embracing his belief in Jesus as the savior.
   
   As Reuben cherishes and rejoices the word, his fears and woes dissapate. He becomes born again of the spirit. Reuben's love for his wife takes a new direction, as does his love for his children. He cries for the first time as he hears the truth for the first time; Jesus died for us, for our sins. He learns about forgiveness and the power of individual prayer.
   
   Reuben wanted to share his love for others by sharing the word with all his family and friends. He and Manny want to start a bible study focusing on the books of the new testement. The bishop does not support their efforts. So the parting.
   
   Reading the bible for themselves becomes the parting of the Amish community. There are those who received the grace of God through their reading, and those who continue to join the bishop's Sunday services. So the tension throughout the community begins.
   
   I am anxiously awaiting for the second book in this series. I am awaiting to see where Ms. Lewis takes this thread. How the Amish resolve this critical threat to their old beliefs in the old world.



2. Beverly Lewis has a true gift for writing. Other authors may try to imitate and capitalize on her success of writing of the Amish, but their quality does not come close. Endearing characters that feel like longtime friends, heart wrenching plots all with a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel, and with God's help. I cried and laughed and anticipated with these characters. Anyone would truly love these novels and all her others, too. Beverly is a woman of God and it shows in her stories. I have read the others and was so disappointed. Nothing compares to Beverly, once you have read hers you will never be able to stomach the rest. You won't be able to put these books down!



3. I purchased this book some time ago but didn't start to read it until a few days ago. In an increasingly crowded market of Amish/Mennonite books, I was getting a little put off by the similar plots. But Beverly stands out in the crowd- this was a fantastic read. I can't wait for the next in the series to come out. She is able to keep the plot fresh and exciting. I highly recommend!!



4. Though not as rich and detailed as some of her previous works (particularly the Abram's Daughters series), The Parting is still a token of Beverly Lewis's sweet and meaningful stories. Nellie Mae Fisher and her family are grieving the accidental death of Nellie's younger sister, Suzy. Meanwhile, their Old Order Amish community is experiencing a radical change in its members' beliefs. And Nellie Mae is falling in love with Caleb Yoder.
   
   The way those factors interplay in Nellie's life does make for a good story. The interest level came at intervals for me; some sections of the novel are engaging and intriguing, while others are slow and almost overly detailed. Still, The Parting is an enjoyable read, particularly as it deals with faith issues in the Amish community.



5. I enjoy Lewis's books for the most part, mainly for the interesting characters, simple way of life, and storylines that are palpable for their emotions and challenges that the characters face. But this book really was a turkey. All I found was Lewis's overwhelming urge to convert all her readers to be born-again Christians. I am a happy Catholic, thank you, and I just want to read a good story, not be bombarded with the "right" way to live my life.
   
   The part that upset me the most was when the father never cried when his daughter Suzy died, yet once he discovers "the good word," he is constantly weeping. And it's not because this means his daughter has been saved and is now in heaven (as other characters start to believe); it's only for himself and knowing that's he's better than everyone else because he knows "the truth." I just can't swallow that.
   
   But, of course, I'll have to read the rest of the books in this series because they're like potato chips: once you read one, you can't stop! But if you're looking to read some of Lewis's series, I would forget this one and go for any of her other novels (esp. Abram's Daughters).

No comments about When the Soul Mends (Sisters of the Quilt, Book 3).

5 comments about Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy.

1. Amish Grace.
   A sensitive & thoughtful discussion of the Amish tragedy & the difficult but necessary task of 'forgiveness'.I found it enlightening illustration of Amish theology & philosophy.



2. This is an excellent source of information about the Amish culture, about forgiveness, and how they came to terms with the Nickel Mines incident. It brings you to a much greater understanding of the lifestyle they have chosen, their spirituality and how they practice their faith.



3. While I am not 'religious' when one uses the term, as it is so often these days by the media, I am very much Quaker/Mennonite in my views, and the Amish no matter what sect, are much like Quakers and how one is taught from birth to forgive. One walks the talk rather than talk talk talk. Actions speak louder than words.
   
   Doesn't mean one forgets. One simply forgives, because its both biblical and because its healthy and ones body is the temple of God. To not forgive would almost be a sin. Although some will actually remind us that it is a sin.
   
   What I like so much about the book, is how its a great tool for enlightening those who dare read it. As Americans and I speak as one, we seem to live in a society that is so judgmental and wanting some type of radical even mean spirited action when we read, see or hear of something wrong.
   
   And from a Biblical point of view the author reminds the reader that forgiveness is rooted in the scripture going back to Joseph in the Old Testament when he was sold into slavery in Egypt. Or Christ who on the cross said 'Father forgive them for they know not what they do.'
   
   Also like the book because my family has been effected by crime. My husband was hit and later died, after being hit my a drunk driver who never in all the years since the accident/crime, ever said he was sorry. Yet, my husband insisted we not hold a grudge, and that we forgive and hope that the young mans life would be better, not worse.
   
   Like the author and the book, it came down to the Lords Prayer and 'Forgives us our sins/transgressions/failings as we forgive those who sin/transgress/fail against us'. How can we expect mercy and grace if we don't offer it ourselves?



4. This was a well written, informative, sensitive book. It didn't give the feel of some of "sensationalizing" a tragedy. Instead, it gently gave light to our fellow neighbors and countrymen, The Amish. It opened a door and gave us a glimpse of our commonality as Christians,our humanness as fallen man, our common struggle with forgiveness and trying to understand tragedy when it happens, and a glimpse at how the Amish distinctly handles tragedy.
   
   It gave much to ponder and think about, and I am very glad that I have read it. I would recommend it highly, especially to those struggling with forgiveness and justice.



5. The issue of forgiveness is one of the most difficult and one of the most important issues in Christian life.
   I was so impressed with the book that I read the book within 2 days. It continues to linger on my mind. It is a must read! It really deserves 4 1/2 stars. My only criticism is that it appears to be written in a hurry and that the different authors sometimes overlap and repeat the same issue.
   The positives far outweigh the small negative.

5 comments about Dear to Me (Brides of Webster County, Book 3).

1. Wanda Brunstetter has done it again. She has given us insight into the Amish world. I really like this author and this book is another well written novel. Melinda loves animals and cares for them so deeply that Gabe thinks she loves her animals more than him. Gabe likes to hunt and does so as a way to provide for his family but Melinda wants him to give up hunting. I won't tell you what happens but I will tell you that you will feel like you are actually there in Melinda and Gabe's world. This is one book that I had a very hard time putting down. Buy it you won't be disappointed.



2. This is a lovely book. A young Amish girl must choose between her natural ability to care for animals and become a vet in the English world and staying with the Amish life and people she loves.The author does an excellent job of painting Amish life and priorities.A story of a kind and gentle people vs. today`s challenges.



3. I love reading Wanda Brunstetters books. She takes me to a place unlike my "English" world. She always has a lesson to be learned. In this book, I feel that we learn about surrendering to God's Will. Melinda loves animals and would like to be a vet, but that would mean leaving Gabe behind. What should she do??



4. Reviewed by Lori Plach for Reader Views (4/08)
   
   When faced with a major decision and desiring for God's will in your life, don't you wish that the correct decision would come to you like a bolt of lightning? Melinda Andrews has everything that a young Amish girl would want. She has been baptized in the Amish faith, and is being courted by her longtime good friend, Gabe Swartz. She has learned all she has to learn in order to be an Amish wife and mother. That is all that young Amish girls are supposed to be able to do with their life anyway.
   
   Melinda has a job working with the local veterinarian. She is able to put her love of caring for animals into action and make additional income for her family until she and Gabe are ready to be married. Everyone in Webster County realizes that Melinda has a heart for wounded animals. She often has injured animals delivered to her farm for medical attention. She is also known to bring animals (tame and wild ones) home from the veterinary clinic for personalized attention. Her parents and brother do not understand her caring spirit and why she is so fascinated with caring for animals rather than attending to her family's needs as expected.
   
   Gabe sees her caring spirit as a valuable trait as it means she will be an excellent mother to their children. The vet, Dr Franklin, sees additional traits in Melinda that would make her an excellent vet assistant or even a veterinarian. But she will need additional education which is contrary to Amish beliefs.
   
   Melinda is so focused on her dream of becoming a vet becoming a reality. She insists that if Gabe really does love her he will follow her into the English world. Being outside the Old Order Amish world is not foreign to young Melinda as she lived her first six years in Branson, Missouri while her mother was chasing stardom. Why is Gabe being so stubborn, doesn't he love her at all? Does loving someone require you to give up all your hopes, dreams and all that you have ever known? What will it take for Melinda to realize what God's plan is for her life?
   
   Wanda Brunstetter is a wonderful storyteller. She uses her experience in visiting Amish settlements throughout the United States to add realism to her stories. "Dear to Me" is the third book in her "The Brides of Webster County" series. "Dear to Me" will have you seeing what is really dear to Melinda's heart and how God can work in your hearts and show how you can utilize your talents to His glory!



5. As always Wanda Brunstetter did a great job on this book. Melinda had to decided if she wanted to go back to the English world so that she could become a vet or stay in the Plain world and marry Gabe. Melinda & Gabe grew alot both individually and together while trying to find out what was most important to make Melinda happy for the rest of her life. It was a very hard decision because if she chose the English world she would have to be shunned by her family. If she stayed in the Plain world she may never be truly happy.
   
   I can't wait for Wanda's next book to be released.

5 comments about Get Out of That Pit: Straight Talk about God's Deliverance.

1. This book is excellently written & very helpful to whoever will listen to what it has to say. Easy to read too.



2. This book has absolutely changed my life. As a former pit dweller myself, I am happy to know the freedom Beth talks about in this book. I would recommend any of her books, but this one is so great because she uses humor and stories of every day life that most all women can relate to. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a fresh look at life, and the difference God can make for those who believe.



3. I really enjoyed this audio CD. Beth Moore is my favorite Bible teacher. This book is very practical in its appraoch to "getting out of that pit". The only problem was actaually with the CD's themselves. The 4th CD was supposed to contain the last part of chapter 8, chap. 9, chap. 10 and then daily prayers. But it had chapters 7,8 (which I had just listened to and then had to find where CD #3 left off),9,10 and NO prayers--which I was really looking forward to. It was wonderful to hear Beth's voice reading this powerful book. I do highly recommend this book.



4. I loved the message in the CDs unfortunately both the one I purchased and the replacement had a defective CD. The last CD repeated chapters 7 & 8 from the previous CD.



5. Wow! It's been less than 6 weeks since I got the book and I am on my second read. Beth Moore hits the nail on the head in recognizing many of the difficulties and confusions that "pit dwellers" suffer from and presented in a style that feels like you are sitting and listening to her talk.
   If you've been fed up of books that "help" by telling you what you already know is wrong and are looking for help in figuring out what you need to do and how, then give this book a read! Be prepared to be honest with yourself and to decide whether you want excuses for a painful and disappointing life or if you want to drop the past and change your future.

5 comments about Plain Truth.

1. I don't usually read many trial books. But this novel had less to do with the trial and more to do with relationships. Relationships surrounding the people involved in the the birth/death of the infant that was found in the Amish family barn which set off a tragic chain of events leading to the arrest of an 18-year-old unwed girl who was born and raised "Plain". The relationships surrounding the girl's lawyer who ended up having to live with the girl for the months leading up to the trial.
   
   It was a fascinating story about a wonderfully peace-loving people and the tragedies that befall them when the outside world gets involved.



2. This is the first book that I have read by Jodi Picoult and it certainly won't be my last. I cannot put this book down. It is an extremely well written story set in Lancaster, PA. She paints a beautiful picture of the Amish lifestyle. I would highly recommend this book!



3. I liked this book. It was an interesting story for the most part. It reminded me of the movie "Witness" with Harrison Ford. The story was a bit longer than necessary, and there were parts of the story that just didn't work (dead sister visions).
   
   This was defintely worth reading.



4. This is the most riveting book written by Jody Picoult that I have ever read. I could not put it down! The insight into the life of the Amish people and their ability to be so selfless was enlightening. "For you it's all about how you stand out. For us it's all about blending in." The reader comes to understand how and why the material world and its goods are not needed by the Amish. It is easier to understand why Katie acts as she does if the reader truly understands the Amish way.



5. I really enjoyed this book, although it did have its problems. I think people read reviews mostly to find out what others didn't like, so I'll start with that.
   
   It took a while to really get going - on page 131, I didn't feel like I knew any more than I did on page 20.
   
   I also feel like Picoult tried to do a little too much with this book, such as the supernatural element. It was pretty unnecessary to the plot, and also kind of awkward because while it did have a big impact on one major character, it wasn't so important to the story as a whole. So, to me it felt like it should have been important, but it wasn't. It seemed like something that was just sort of thrown in.
   
   Similarly, there were two characters, Lizzie and Leda, who I thought were going to be important and who just disappeared throughout most of the novel, for the most part. I didn't care so much with Lizzie, but I really think that Leda could have been an interesting character and addition to the story.
   
   The ending left too many questions in my mind, which I find annoying. I don't mean thought-provoking or interesting questions, but frustrating, confused questions.
   
   And my last complaint - the love story. Come on, really. Why does every novel with a female protagonist have to have a love story? It was cheesy, at best.
   
   So why did I give it four stars? Mostly because throughout the book I found myself actually caring about what happened to these characters. I felt like I had a decent sense of who they were and I also enjoyed the writing style for the most part (although it was redundant at times - if I had to read about Katie blushing again, I was going to scream.) I was also interested to learn many new things about the Amish.
   
   Really, if I could I would give this book 3.5 stars, but I rounded up. It's worth a read. :)

1 comments about The Forbidden (The Courtship of Nellie Fisher, Book 2).

1. The Forbidden continues the life of Nellie Fisher that was started in book one, The Parting. Beverly Lewis once again masterfully creates a world of characters that come alive on the page. She takes us into the Amish world and shows the struggles, thoughts and emotions of a people most of us don't understand. Her characters become living, breathing people that the reader cares about deeply. I am only sorry that I must wait for book 3, the end of the Nellie Fisher series. I cannot wait to see the twists and turns that Bev will take us on. I highly recommend The Forbidden and all Beverly Lewis books! A faithful reader.